Movies
Smith, whose credits include Seven Years In Tibet and Children Of Men, will take over from John McCormick later this week, reportsThe Hollywood Reporter.
The incoming chairman said: "In these changing times the festival will be leading the way towards the discovery and showcasing of new talent and ideas in both a local and an international context."
In his 11 years as chairman, McCormick led the organisation through various changes including the decision to move the event to earlier in the year.
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